Analysis for Exceptions Must be done on a Case-by-Case Basis

On March 13, 2025, CalHR issued a policy memorandum to all Agency Secretaries and Department Heads as required by the Governor’s Executive Order mandating employees convert to four (4) in-person work days each week effective July 1, 2025.  The memo advises that each agency/department is required to conduct an analysis on a case-by-case basis to determine whether the circumstances support an exception to the in-person rule.

Some of the specific exceptions identified by CalHR are the following:  (1) reasonable accommodation for disabilities as defined by State and federal law; and,  (2) employees whose work requires it be performed and is specified in a telework agreement that it be performed at an alternate location such as telehealth providers, inspectors and investigators; (3) employees who reside at a location that is 50 miles or more from their headquarters and duty station and had a telework agreement in place prior to March 3, 2025 (until such position becomes vacant).

The memo further clarified that “in person work” is not the same as “in office work” and “working in the field” would also meet the definition of in-person non-telework.

Employees in Bargaining Unit 7 are advised to work in good faith with their supervisors to arrive at a mutually agreeable work schedule that meets the needs of State service and provides for the greatest productivity including the avoidance of unnecessary commute time. Should Unit 7 employees encounter difficulties in working through the assessment process, they are encouraged to contact CSLEA for assistance.

A copy of the policy memo may be accessed here.